The DeVries Coaching Approach

A church planter interviewed me to determine if I’d be a good match to work with him as his coach. One of his questions grabbed my attention – “What is your approach to coaching?”

I loved this question because it gave me the opportunity to explain the unique benefits of a coaching relationship, as well as to help him understand my commitment to him and his agenda for our coaching conversations. If you are looking for a coach, pay attention to the coach’s approach to the coaching relationship!

The DeVries Coaching ApproachMy approach to coaching and a coaching relationship shows up in every conversation. If you were interested in working with me as your coach, here are some of the distinctives you would experience:

1. Client-Focused – When I start a coaching relationship, I see it as my primary aim to serve the client. The client sets the agenda. It’s not about what I think or believe the client should do. Rather, I’m focused on helping you to discover how to move forward to attain your goals.

2. Non-Directive – I don’t have a set curriculum that the client needs to accomplish. I’m not the expert who is hired to tell someone what to do next. My approach is non-directive. I come alongside, actively listen, and ask powerful questions which give you greater clarity.

3. Transformational – Leaders who enter into a coaching relationship are committed to do whatever is necessary to reach their goals. They aren’t content to just change a few things – they want transformation. My coaching approach is built on a commitment to helping my clients experience transformational leadership!

4. Spirit-Sensitive – In every coaching conversation, together we will listen to the Holy Spirit to discern what He is saying, where He is leading, and how He is working. My responsibility as a Christian coach is to cooperate with the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of my clients. I cannot (and will not) assume the Spirit’s role in your life.

5. Raising Awareness – In my first attempts at coaching leaders, I focused exclusively on getting clients to take appropriate action steps to reach their goals. While this is still an important part of coaching conversations, I have realized that raising awareness about oneself and the circumstances around the issues faced is necessary before one can identify the right actions. My approach includes working with clients to help them 1) increase their awareness of what’s happening within them, 2) focus on their being and not just doing, and 3) see them become healthy and effective leaders.

6. Results Oriented – Coaching enables leaders to go further faster. When a leader knows where they are going, working with a coach will empower them to attain their goals. In situations where greater clarity is needed, coaches will ask questions that generate focused direction. I approach every coaching conversation with intention to help you to both identify and pursue the outcomes you desire.

7. Passionate – Coaching is about empowerment. I bring my passion and drive fully into every coaching conversation. My approach is not passive. I engage with you as a client, seeking to energize you in the areas of your passion.

Today’s Missional Challenge

Consider how working with a coach may empower you to fully live out God’s calling on your life!

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Dave DeVries

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Dr. Dave DeVries is a coach, trainer, author and founder of Missional Challenge. He is passionate about coaching and training church planters and missional leaders. With 30+ years of church planting and leadership development experience, Dave brings his passion and encouragement to those he trains and coaches.